Bylines

John Garrison Marks

Illustration of the Statute of Liberty holding a 250 bag and carrying tacky merch with misspellings.

"We Hold These Truds": A Search For The Weirdest Piece Of America 250 Merchandise

250th-anniversary merchandise has surged, with an expanding range of commemorative items from novelty souvenirs to widespread retail offerings.
Auguste Regnier's painting, "Life of George Washington the Farmer"

George Washington’s Legacy of Slavery and the Fight for American Memory

If there are two rules about early American history, one is that, no matter how vast, George Washington will always be instructive.
Painting of George Washington on a plantation with slaves.

George Washington, Abolitionist?

On Americans' off-and-on, centuries-long effort to paint Washington as an antislavery crusader.
John Garrison Marks and his book.

America Can't Let Go of George Washington's Slave-holding History

On the nation’s relationship to George Washington’s legacy.
Washington DC landmarks lighting up the skyline as fireworks flare in the background.

America’s 250th Is Repeating a Familiar Mistake

The question of how to reckon with America's past of slavery during the celebrations, such as the U.S. semiquincentennial, has a history of controversy.
Slavery exhibit outside Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, later removed by the National Park Service.

We’ve Never Agreed About George Washington and Slavery

America continues to grapple with the legacy of one of its favorite Founders.
Compilation of historical markers from different states.

Why Historical Markers Matter

Few realize that the approval process for these outdoor signs varies widely by state and organization, enabling unsanctioned displays to slip through.
Photos of various instances of climate change's effects such as wildfires and hurricanes.

Climate Change Is Destroying American History

As climate change increases the severity of extreme weather events, the nation’s legacy is at risk.